Canadian psychologists' and psychology graduate students' perceptions of psychedelic therapy
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Date
2025
Authors
Cobuz, Victoria D.
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education
Abstract
The field of psychedelics has seen a revival in recent years that has yielded preliminary evidence for their therapeutic benefits. As clinical trials of psychedelic therapy increase, it is essential to understand psychologists' perceptions of this treatment, as these are likely to influence the future implementation and accessibility of psychedelic therapy. The current study aimed to explore the perceptions and knowledge of psychedelic therapy among psychology graduate students and registered psychologists, and to assess how perceptions varied based on registration status, knowledge, and demographic factors. An online survey was employed to gather data on 137 participants’ perceptions and knowledge of psychedelic therapy. Results revealed a general consensus on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, with no significant differences between students and psychologists. Participants highlighted a notable lack of formal education on the subject, yet most expressed a desire for psychedelic therapy to be included in psychology training. The findings also revealed that higher levels of knowledge were associated with more favourable perceptions of psychedelic therapy. Personal experience with psychedelics was associated with both more favourable perceptions and higher levels of knowledge. Gender did not significantly impact perceptions or knowledge. These insights emphasize the need to address the shortage of trained providers and incorporate psychedelic therapy into psychology curricula so that that future psychologists are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to incorporate this emerging field into their practice. The current findings provide important insights into the current understanding and attitudes toward psychedelic therapy within the field of psychology, particularly in Canada.
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Keywords
psychology , psychedelic therapy , psychedelics , psychedelic-assisted therapy , perceptions , stigma